A couple of observations and I’ll let you get on with your busy Monday.

If you cannot or will not see yourself through others’ eyes it is difficult to claim emotional or spiritual maturity. It is informative and occasionally stunning to take an honest look at who and what those around you see when they look at you – and when they listen to you. Sometimes it’s pleasant; other times it stings a little. But in all cases there is value in knowing how you are coming across to those looking on.

It is wise to carefully choose whom you ask.

Those who make the most lasting impact on you are the ones who love you enough to tell you what you do not want to hear. You probably won’t like them much at the time. But if your friendship is sturdy enough for them to weather your gripey snarkiness long enough to tell you the tough words, hang onto ’em.

They’re keepers.

Anyone can tell you what you want to hear and many do.

Be honest. You don’t respect them much. In fact, you likely don’t much enjoy their company, do you?

Your pride can take some solid body blows from the other few we’re talking about. But the ones you secretly admire and are willing to hang around are the ones from whom you know you will receive truth.

Why?

You grow when you’re around them. What you talk about builds you both up.